Still without a win, Sheffield Wednesday are looking to put that right on Sunday in the South Yorkshire derby against Rotherham United, a team, that is also struggling at the wrong end of the Championship table.
And so, the new manager Danny Rohl, is looking for help outside of his playing and coaching staff.
The Hillsborough crowd can be as vociferous as any in the league, and this was evident during the clubs’ playoff run at the end of last season. No one can take away the importance of home advantage when it is in full swing, and The Owls have that in abundance.
Home Support
Unfortunately, they have not had much to shout about so far this season. They have just picked up two pints from their six games at home so far. The game against the Millers is something that should bring out the best in the Wednesday faithful, at least that is what Rohl is urging.
The Star, reporting locally, captured Rohl saying. “This is a special thing at this club. After a 3-0 defeat [away at Plymouth Argyle last Wednesday] it’s not normal to receive this kind of support from the fans.” Many of the travelling support stayed after the final whistle to show support for Rohl and the players.
“They have a good sense of what we need at the moment and the energy required to move forward. I was very impressed to see what happened after a defeat like this.
Danny Röhl is speaking with the media ahead of Sunday's clash with Rotherham 🗣️
DR 💬 "Everyone is ready, I have 27 players to choose from for Sunday. The only injuries we have are Juan Delgado and Momo Diaby." #swfc pic.twitter.com/IanlwzOlHV
— Sheffield Wednesday (@swfc) October 27, 2023
“Everyone should attend this match. We are playing in a Yorkshire derby. This is what we need. I hope the entire city turns out for the game. We can achieve great things on Sunday and move forward.
“I am confident in my team because they have been working hard with intense runs, numerous sprints, and high-pressure ball-winning situations. We need to play forward, not backward. We need to attack the opponent’s goal. If we do this, we will have a fantastic Sunday.”
Writer’s View
Sunday’s derby game presents an ideal opportunity for Rohl and his team to change the tide at Hillsborough. A win here could be the start of change, but he is aware of the long battle ahead if Wednesday is to start making any progress up the table. A win would still leave them bottom, and some way adrift of the safety line.
The early signs are good and the pressing style being adopted could pay dividends. The home support will be crucial, not just in getting behind the team if things do get better, but sticking with them if it remains troubled. The solid fanbase will be behind Rohl to get that elusive first win, and hopefully kick on from there.
